How to choose sunscreen for combination skin

What should the label say?

Check protection before texture. SPF describes protection against UVB, the rays primarily responsible for sunburn. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVB and UVA, which contributes to early skin aging. SPF alone is not the whole label. In the UK, look for SPF 30 or higher and at least four stars for UVA protection; a UVA symbol inside a circle indicates that the product meets the EU standard.34

Which texture should you try?

If oiliness is your main concern, try a gel first. If dryness is the bigger problem, start with a moisturizing sunscreen. Keep SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance on the checklist whichever texture you choose.12

Does combination skin need mineral sunscreen?

Mineral, chemical and hybrid sunscreens can all provide effective protection when they meet the protection checklist. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both; hybrid sunscreens combine mineral and chemical filters. Sensitivity is a reason to consider mineral sunscreen, rather than oiliness alone. If sunscreen stings or burns, choose a fragrance free option with only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as its sunscreen filters.125

A tinted formula is worth considering if white residue bothers you or dark spots are a concern. Visible light from the sun can worsen skin darkening, particularly in darker skin tones. Tinted sunscreens contain iron oxide, which helps protect against visible light. A tint that matches your skin tone can also make white residue less noticeable.12

How do you apply sunscreen in the morning?

1. 1Cleanse gently. Use your hands rather than an abrasive washcloth.
2. 2Apply moisturizer. Moisturizer helps keep water from evaporating from your skin.
3. 3Apply sunscreen as the final skincare step, to dry skin. Use at least one teaspoon for your face, and cover your exposed neck and ears too.
4. 4Apply before going outdoors. Allow at least 15 minutes, and follow any longer lead time on the label.
5. 5Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating, following the bottle's directions.

Sunscreen belongs in the morning routine, not the nighttime routine. Keep new additions to a minimum, particularly if you are trying to identify what irritates your skin. Several toners or serums can add dryness without improving the order of your routine.6

For a longer period in the sun where burning is a risk, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and again just before leaving. Cover every exposed area rather than concentrating on the oilier parts of your face. Applying sunscreen too thinly reduces protection. Reapply after towel drying or whenever sunscreen has rubbed off, as well as after water exposure.3

Can SPF moisturizer or makeup replace sunscreen?

Do not rely on makeup or moisturizer alone simply because the packaging mentions SPF. These products are usually not enough to completely protect against sun damage. SPF cosmetics and moisturizers still need appropriate application and outdoor reapplication. In the US, products claiming broad spectrum SPF protection are regulated as sunscreen products, including cosmetics and moisturizers.246

What does water resistant actually mean?

Water resistant does not mean waterproof. On US labels, water resistance is stated as either 40 or 80 minutes of tested protection while swimming or sweating. Check that duration and the reapplication directions before using sunscreen for exercise or swimming. All sunscreens eventually wash off, including those labeled water resistant.4

What should you expect from sunscreen?

Sunscreen helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging when used with other protective measures. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays; higher SPFs block slightly more, but none blocks all UVB. Higher SPF does not extend the time between applications. Wear sunscreen when going outdoors even for a short time, including in winter and on cloudy days.245

Less expensive sunscreens with the same ingredients work as well as expensive ones, so the receipt is not a protection rating. Compare the protection label and ingredients before paying more. Check the expiry date too, including the open jar symbol that indicates how many months the product lasts after opening.35

Use shade, protective clothing, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses alongside sunscreen. A baseball cap leaves your ears and the sides of your face exposed. Sunscreen is not a reason to stay in the sun longer. Water, sand and snow reflect UV rays, so take extra care around them.25

When should you stop using a sunscreen?

Stop using a product that causes irritation and arrange a dermatologist appointment. If a rash occurs, stop use and ask a doctor. Do not apply sunscreen to damaged or broken skin. Keep sunscreen out of your eyes; rinse with water if it gets in them. Seek medical help for sunburn if you feel unwell or your skin swells badly or blisters.367